Fears new mums unaware of community midwife service

New mothers in the Millicent area are being urged to use the community midwife service.

A meeting of Millicent hospital staff, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation and Country Health SA has revealed concerns that some women might be unaware of the service.

The federation's chief executive, Elizabeth Dabars, says there could be some confusion over the services that are provided.

"So whilst birthing services themselves are not available at Millicent Hospital at this time, it certainly is open to the local community to have some advice and assistance before the birth of their child and just as importantly some home visits by a midwife following the birth of their child," she said.

Ms Dabars says it is heartening that Country Health SA has committed to better promoting the service.

"The concern is if it's not being used it may well be taken away and lost to the community, so it's really important that women and their families are aware there are some services, those home visits following the birth of a child," she said.

Ms Dabars is also calling for better recruitment and retention strategies after the recent resignation of a GP from the Millicent Medical Clinic.